Winter weather in Sacramento can bring heavy rain, strong winds, fallen trees and localized flooding. As the rainy season approaches, the City of Sacramento is reminding residents to take a few simple steps to prepare their homes and neighborhoods.

City crews maintain drainage systems, public trees and streets year-round, but residents also play an important role in preparing for storms.

“Preparing for winter weather is something we can all do together,” said City Manager Maraskeshia Smith. “Our City crews work year-round to maintain critical infrastructure, but residents also play an important role. Keeping storm drains clear, properly disposing of leaves, signing up for emergency alerts and knowing who to call when problems arise are simple steps that can help keep our neighborhoods safe when storms arrive.”

What residents can do to prepare

• Use your organics bin first. During leaf season, which runs from November through January, place leaves and yard waste in your organics container before making piles for Claw collection. Keep piles away from storm drains, bike lanes and parked vehicles.
• Keep storm drains clear. When it is safe, use a broom or rake to remove leaves and debris from drains near your home. Never enter standing or moving water to clear a drain.
• Secure outdoor items. Bring in or secure lawn furniture, decorations and other loose objects that could be blown around during strong winds.
• Prepare an emergency kit. Gather flashlights, batteries, water, medications, important documents and other essential supplies. Make a household emergency plan.
• Know your flood risk. Review local flood preparedness resources and consider flood insurance. Standard homeowners insurance policies generally do not cover flood damage.
• Sign up for Sacramento Alert. Receive emergency notifications about severe weather, flooding and evacuations at cityofsacramento.gov/smart911.

Who to contact

Residents should know where to report storm-related problems and how to get assistance.

• 311: Call or report online for flooded streets, blocked storm drains, fallen City trees, traffic signals that are out or other nonemergency City service issues.
• SMUD: Call 1-888-456-7683 or report a power outage online. Stay away from downed power lines and report electrical hazards to SMUD.
• 211: Call for information about available respite centers and other community resources.
• 911: Call for emergencies or immediate threats to life and safety.

How the City prepares for winter weather

The City maintains more than 31,000 storm drain inlets and 100 pump stations that help move stormwater through Sacramento’s drainage system.

Throughout the year, Utilities crews inspect and maintain drainage infrastructure, monitor waterways and respond to drainage problems. During significant storms, crews monitor changing conditions and coordinate with regional flood-protection partners.

Public Works crews also maintain City trees, sweep streets and respond to fallen trees, broken limbs and other hazards in public rights of way.

During leaf season, Recycling and Solid Waste crews operate the Claw program to collect excess leaves and yard waste, helping keep debris out of storm drains.

Residents can find additional information about preparing for storms, flooding and other winter weather conditions at cityofsacramento.gov/winter.